FASCINATING FACTS ABOUT CHAMELEONS

Why do chameleons really change colour? While we are usually told that chameleons change colour in order to blend in with their background, this is not generally the case. Rather, they use their colour-changing ability as a way to communicate with others and as a method of regulating their temperature. As an example, if a chameleon is feeling chilly, they may turn a darker colour in an effort to absorb more heat. Interestingly, if an adult male sees another male nearby, they may become darker in the hope this may scare away their competition. It’s the ‘iridophore’ cells under their skin that give them the ability to do this. These cells both reflect light and contain pigments; pretty awesome!